‘America’s Next Top Model’ Picked Up By VH1 With New Host, Tyra Banks To EP

America’s Next Top Model will live on! The modeling reality competition series, which ended its 22-cycle run on the CW and its predecessor UPN, has been picked up by VH1 for a new 14-episode season. Top Model creator and executive producer Tyra Banks, who hosted the show for its entire run to date, will continue as an executive producer alongside original Top Model executive producer Ken Mok, who has run the series since the start. There will be a new host and judges as the veteran show is being “reinvented for a new generation.” The deal was made by CBS Television Distribution, which shopped the series to cable and SVOD outlets last fall after receiving incoming interest.

“After creating an incredible, global brand, I am beyond excited to have the show reborn,” Banks said. “I will continue as Executive Producer, but must turn my attention to new business endeavors, so I want to find a new host. I’m pumped to identify that person and bring back the show. Top Model fans, you demanded that the show come back, and VH1 answered the call. Get ready for a fierce-a-fied rebirth!”

Top Model premiered May 20, 2003 on UPN, and was the first series to debut on The CW on Sept 20, 2006. Top Model has been the most successful reality series on the network and the longest-running series currently on the CW. Additionally, it launched a very successful format that has been produced in over 30 countries.

“We’re thrilled to bring America’s Next Top Model back to VH1 and partner with CBS Television Distribution and Tyra Banks to reinvent this franchise for a whole new generation,” said Chris McCarthy, General Manager of VH1. “This is a homecoming for the series, as VH1 helped catapult the show to cultural icon status as the first cable network to air the show after it launched.”

VH1, which has been on a ratings upswing the last couple of quarters, has been focused on young viewers, currently ranking #8 in adults 18-34, which also has been Top Model’s core demo.

“We could not be more excited to bring back and breathe new life into one of the greatest unscripted franchises on television,” said Scott Koondel, chief licensing officer for CBS Corp. “VH1 is the perfect partner for this new endeavor and we hope this is the beginning of a long relationship.”

By all means, re-brand, reshape, re-imagine, do all the “re-“s that have taken over the industry. Just don’t try to reinvent the wheel. It’s about modelling. If one of the challenges ends up being to take the best selfie, I officially quit.

Just quit with the RuPaul Charles similarities. Both of you have gotten tired mimicking each other.

Fred • on Feb 24, 2016 4:35 am

I thought it jumped the Shark when Janice Dickinson left the show. Say what you want but she’s funny as hell to watch.

Sharon • on Feb 24, 2016 5:21 am

Yes – I vote for Cynthia Bailey as a host. She is very knowledgeable about modeling and fashion. She has her confidence now and she’s on fire right now!

Anonymous • on Feb 24, 2016 6:30 am

They should have real shoots for real campagnes i think

Pamela Hallenbeck • on Feb 24, 2016 6:50 am

Why not have a rotation of hosts! If will give the show some variety by never knowing who will host the next season and what twists and turns it will take. I enjoyed it when new challenges etc. were added each season. I think many in the model/fashion/photography industry would want to host a season.

Anonymous • on Feb 24, 2016 8:04 am

TYRA BANKS,ALL THE WAY,SHE IS AWESOME

Anonymous • on Feb 24, 2016 2:30 pm

I can’t imagine top model without Tyra, but if it has to be someone else, I want Coco Rocha.